In a recent update, WhatsApp has now included support for group video calls or video conferencing in its mobile app. Group calling on WhatsApp was first announced by Facebook at its annual F8 developer conference in May this year. The new WhatsApp feature is now available for users around the world on iOS and Android.
Video calls have been on the app since 2016, but until now it was limited to just two participants. But now the app now supports up to 4 participants in a video call. WhatsApp assured users that the new feature is engineered to work under slow network conditions. Additionally, calls are end-to-end encrypted, like all chats on the messaging app.
To start a group video call, follow the steps outlined below.
- Download the most recent version of WhatsApp, or update the app to the latest release from Google Play Store or Apple App Store.
- Open the app, and swipe right to the calls section of the app. You can also start a call inside a chat screen by tapping the video icon on the right side of the green toolbar.
- After you initiate a video call, you will see a button at the top-right corner of the screen that will let you add another participant to the call. Once the call gets connected, an ‘Add Person’ icon is shown on the top right, above the names of the recipient.
- If the third user accepts the call, both the names will be shown with a comma separating them. You can also add a fourth person.
Feature image: play.google.com